It’s been over three years since the Ringwood Aquatic Centre closed, but its
replacement has been well worth the wait for Maroondah residents in outer
Melbourne. Aquanation, a state-of-the-art aquatic and leisure centre opened to
the public on 17 August, providing a refreshing delight for all.

The $46.5million project began in August 2011 when architectural firm Peddle
Thorp was contracted to design the new centre. In addition to meeting the needs
of residents for the next 50 years, the design brief demanded a complete
environmental management philosophy. Energy efficiency and water conservation
were at the forefront of this, with maximum use of natural light and ventilation
also crucial to the design. Construction commenced in July 2013.

The Australian Government contributed $10 million through the Regional
Development Australia Fund and a further $3 million came from the Victorian
Government’s Community Facility Funding Program. ConnectEast and the Ringwood
East and Heathmont Community Bank also invested in the project and will be
ongoing corporate partners.

Fantech External Sales Engineer Chris De Silva worked with Brenair Mechanical
Services on the project. Over 60 exhaust, supply and return air fans and six
attenuators were supplied for the centre as well as pedestal fans for use in the
gym.

Chris said a 66.5 metre 10-lane pool and 10 metre diving tower, both built to
FINA standards, were the heart of the complex. “But what makes this pool so
amazing is the twin boom system which divides the pool and moves to create a
flexible water space for the various activities scheduled.”

Overlooking the diving pool on the Mezzanine level is Victoria’s first dry diving
training room. Chris said the Ringwood Diving Club had produced many champions
and this proud record would continue with the controlled environment of the
training room helping divers perfect their technique.

Aquanation has a range of aquatic features including: a dedicated learn to swim
pool, a therapeutic warm water pool and a free-form leisure pool with beach area
and two large waterslides. There is also a spa, steam and sauna room, a large
gym with personal training, aerobic and cycle rooms, child care facilities and a
café.